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The result of a federal audit showed that nursing homes in Louisiana are diligent about screening job candidates but need improvements in their process.

About The Audit

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) sanctioned an audit of background screening practices at Louisiana nursing homes. Nine locations were chosen and reviewed between October 1, 2019, and June 30, 2022. Results of that study were announced on December 6, 2023.

According to a release created by the OIG, the audit was done to help protect vulnerable populations. It said the objective was to determine whether the selected nursing homes "complied with Federal requirements that prohibit the employment of individuals with disqualifying backgrounds.”

Results

Overall, the OIGs findings were positive. Their results stated that “all nine selected nursing homes in the State complied with Federal requirements that prohibit the employment of individuals with disqualifying backgrounds.” However, the auditors did identify a few limitations in the screening and adjudication process the nursing facilities utilized. Specifically, they noted that "Louisiana did not require the review of nursing homes' compliance with background check requirements as part of its periodic nursing home surveys unless concerns had been identified relative to inadequate staffing; issues of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misappropriation; or both."

To help improve these screening methods, the OIG recommended that LA nursing homes routinely monitor their compliance with background check requirements. The state agreed and will update their regulations based on the audit’s findings. Nursing homes will also be required to run statewide criminal background checks which are conducted by the State Police or authorized agencies.

The Importance Of Proper Screening

Every employer is encouraged to screen potential employees, volunteers and contractors. This is especially important for organizations that provide services to vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly. Background checks help hiring managers make informed decisions and maintain safe workplaces. We think of them as affordable insurance policies that help protect your business, staff and reputation.

Annual or reoccurring screenings can further bolster your due diligence practices. These reports provide useful insight regarding whether a member of your team incurred a new criminal record of which you should be aware, lost a license or credential or had something else happen which might affect their eligibility for ongoing employment.

Finding A Background Check Provider

Only a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) may provide background checks that are used for employment purposes. It is essential for employers to avoid obtaining data from public records websites or reviewing expunged or outdated records. A great way to enhance your compliance efforts is to work with a CRA that is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association.

Accredited CRAs must demonstrate that they follow reasonable procedures to provide current, accurate data. Working with one and ordering background checks before making employment decisions can help your business avoid risks such as claims of negligent hiring.

Need Background Checks?

If your organization needs background checks for employment purposes, please contact us. Our experienced team can help you customize screening packages based on your particular needs, relevant laws and applicable industry standards.

Backgrounds Online is located in the United States. We are an accredited, service-first CRA that can help solve your screening challenges. We’re available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.